Gender Differences in Using Discourse Markers in Spoken Jordanian Arabic

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate gender differences in using discourse markers (DMs) in spoken Jordanian Arabic. A quantitative-qualitative analysis of natural everyday conversations was employed, utilizing Brinton’s (1996) binary categorization as a theoretical framework to define the textual and interpersonal functions of Jordanian DMs. In total, (39) tokens of Jordanian DMs were designated, with اه /ʔah/ (yes/yeah) occupying the highest rank in the frequency list, and their functions were distinguished. The findings indicated insignificant differences in the frequency of DMs used by Jordanian male/female speakers. Gender discrepancies were observed at the functional levels. While Jordanian female speakers tend to use DMs for textual purposes, male speakers prefer using DMs for interpersonal functions. In sum, the difference between Jordanian male and female usage of DMs lies at the functional level rather than quantity.